Thank you, President Bush

Today is an historic day in the USA. A new president takes the oath of office and the American people and the world recognize how far we have come in embracing diversity and healing as a nation. I am thankful for the reality that this is true of our nation (though there will always be issues to address regarding race, I think) and can appreciate the magnitude of this event. It is a testament to the greatness of our nation as transfer of power occurs so peacefully and with such respect.

I didn't wake up this morning thinking as much about the inauguration as I did about the man leaving office. President Bush heads home to Texas today to begin his next adventure. It saddened me as I turned on the television this morning, and in reading through the headlines swooshing past on the bottom of the screen saw the media making mention of Bush's low approval ratings as he leaves office. What would have been fair? To remind the American people that our Congress has an even lower rating still, but I digress. Bush for all of his strengths and his flaws still deserves our respect and gratitude for the service he has done for our nation.

While there are people that might disagree with me on this point, I want to express my appreciation, my gratitude for President Bush who led us through an amazing eight years of life and history. His firm stance on terrorism and ensuing protection of our nation, the rights of the unborn, his choices for Supreme Court justices, assistance for those living with AIDS in Africa are some of the highlights for me from his presidency. He showed great strength when the shocking and grievous events happened on 9-11 and resolve as he shared with the American people so honestly that this war would be long-lasting and needed to be pursued.

I was recently reflecting on his first term when, because of litigation over the presidency, he had to put his appointments on hold for his administration. How amazing it is that he handled 9-11 as he did in light of the late start he experienced in getting his administration set-up. And, how easily we forget some of these things. I appreciated his Farewell Address to the nation last week, as well. He was honest, humble, hopeful and so very gracious.

The 'world' may cheer as he leaves office today, but I am sad. I pray he has a smooth transition away from Washington and a restful few weeks or months of reflection. I hope we look back in the years to come and shower him with the respect and gratitude he deserves. And, I trust that he will continue to influence and impact the lives of people wherever these next steps may take him.

Thank you so much, President Bush! May God bless you in the days ahead.